James E. Greven, 85, of Highland, IN passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Wednesday, January 31, 2018. He is survived by his beloved wife of 59 years, Anastasia. Loving father of Angeline (Louis A.) Gikas and Nicholas (Becky Ballard) Greven. Proud grandfather of Katherine (fiancé Michael Walker) and Alex Gikas. Caring brother-in-law of Helen (late Charles) Greven. He leaves behind many beloved brothers, sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews both here and in Greece. He was preceded in death by his parents, Anna and Eugene Greven; siblings, Mary (Louis) Kokenis, John Greven, Cynthia (Spiro) Barkas, Thomas (Stella) Greven and Virginia (Thomas) Zaganas. Jim was born and raised in Hammond, IN and was a graduate of Hammond Tech High Scool. He was a lifelong member of St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church and served on the church board for 16 years. Jim was formerly employed at Blaw-Knox Steel Foundry in East Chicago, Korellis Roofing and Stoney Island Foods. He proudly served with the U.S. Army, Tank Division during the Korean War. He was a member of AHEPA Chapter 123, American Legion Allied Post 369 and V.F.W. Post 6841. He enjoyed bowling, Cubs baseball, Butler basketball, Bingo and working out at Fitness Pointe. Jim was an original member of the Die Hard Cub Fan Club. One of his greatest joys was to see his Cubs win the World Series. He always said "I live for this!" Jim will always be remembered as a funny, witty, gentle and kind soul that loved his family, friends and his faith tremendously. Visitation will be held on Monday, February 5, 2018 from 3:00-8:00 pm with the Trisagion service at 7:00 pm at KISH FUNERAL HOME, 10000 Calumet Ave. Munster, IN. Funeral service will be held on Tuesday at 10:00 am at St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church, 7021 Hohman Ave. Hammond, IN. Interment will be at Elmwood Cemetery, Hammond, IN.

Published in The Times on Feb. 4, 2018